How can you design and run a horizontal drilling program?

1 Define objectives and constraints

The first step in any horizontal drilling program is to define the objectives and constraints of the project. What are the reservoir characteristics, geology, and fluid properties? What are the production targets, economic limits, and environmental regulations? How will you evaluate the performance and profitability of the horizontal well? These questions will help you determine the optimal well trajectory, length, diameter, completion, and stimulation methods for your horizontal well.

2 Design well trajectory and profile

The next step is to design the well trajectory and profile, which consists of three main sections: the vertical section, the build section, and the horizontal section. The vertical section is the part of the well that goes straight down from the surface to the kickoff point, where the well starts to deviate from the vertical. The build section is the part of the well that curves from the kickoff point to the landing point, where the well reaches the target horizontal plane. The horizontal section is the part of the well that runs parallel to the target formation. The design of the well trajectory and profile depends on factors such as reservoir depth, thickness, dip, heterogeneity, boundaries, and faults, as well as drilling equipment, tools, and methods.

3 Select drilling equipment and tools

The third step is to select the drilling equipment and tools that will enable you to drill the horizontal well safely and efficiently. The main components of the drilling equipment and tools are the rig, the drill string, the drill bit, the bottom hole assembly (BHA), and the measurement while drilling (MWD) and logging while drilling (LWD) systems. The rig is the structure that supports the drilling operation and provides power, circulation, and control. The drill string is the assembly of pipes that connects the rig to the drill bit. The drill bit is the device that cuts through the rock and creates the wellbore. The BHA is the section of the drill string that contains various components such as stabilizers, motors, reamers, and directional tools that help steer and control the well trajectory. The MWD and LWD systems are sensors and transmitters that provide real-time data on the well position, direction, inclination, formation properties, and drilling parameters.

4 Execute drilling operation and monitor progress

The fourth step is to execute the drilling operation and monitor the progress of the horizontal well. This involves following the planned well trajectory and profile, adjusting the drilling parameters and BHA configuration as needed, and ensuring that the drilling operation is safe, stable, and efficient. The drilling operation also requires constant communication and coordination between the rig crew, the directional driller, the MWD/LWD engineer, the geologist, and the drilling engineer. The progress of the horizontal well can be monitored by using the MWD/LWD data, surface measurements, and periodic surveys and logs.

5 Evaluate well quality and integrity

The fifth step is to evaluate the well quality and integrity after the drilling operation is completed. This involves running various tests and logs to check the wellbore geometry, stability, cleanliness, and isolation. The well quality and integrity can affect the performance and longevity of the horizontal well, as well as the safety and environmental impact of the project. Some of the common tests and logs that are used to evaluate the well quality and integrity are the caliper log, the gamma ray log, the cement bond log, the pressure test, and the casing inspection.

6 Complete and stimulate well

The final step is to complete and stimulate the horizontal well to prepare it for production. The completion and stimulation methods depend on the reservoir characteristics, fluid properties, and production objectives. The completion method involves installing various devices and equipment in the wellbore to control the flow of fluids and to prevent sand production, water influx, or gas migration. Some of the common completion methods for horizontal wells are open hole, slotted liner, pre-packed screen, and cased hole. The stimulation method involves applying various treatments to the wellbore and the formation to enhance the permeability and productivity of the horizontal well. Some of the common stimulation methods for horizontal wells are acidizing, fracturing, and coiled tubing.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?